Regular Prenatal Yoga Practice Proven Effective in Improving Sleep Quality for Third-Trimester Pregnant Women

Apriyani Multitach Publisher Kamis, Agustus 20, 2026

FORMOSA NEWS

LAMONGAN — Entering the third trimester of pregnancy, sleep disturbances are a common challenge faced by expectant mothers. This decline in sleep quality is driven by complex physiological and psychological changes, ranging from lower back pain and anxiety regarding childbirth to increased pressure on the bladder caused by fetal growth, which leads to frequent nighttime urination. To address these issues without relying on medication, recent scientific research confirms that engaging in regular prenatal yoga is significantly associated with improved sleep quality among women in their final trimester of pregnancy. This scientific study was conducted by a research team from Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, comprising Rosidatul Awaliyah, Ponco Indah Arista Sari, Aulia Kurnianing Putri, and Ratih Indah Kartikasari. Published in 2026 in the scientific journal International Journal of Advanced Technology and Social Sciences (IJATSS), the study highlights how crucial adequate sleep and rest are for maintaining maternal health and supporting fetal growth and development.

Background and Impacts of Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disorders during pregnancy are a global health concern. World Health Organization (WHO) data indicates that approximately 18% of the global population suffers from sleep disturbances, while in Indonesia, insomnia affects an estimated 10% of the population—equivalent to around 28 million people. Among pregnant women, the prevalence of sleep disorders increases dramatically, especially during the third trimester, where it can affect over 60% of pregnancies. In East Java alone, the prevalence of sleep disturbances in pregnant women has been reported at 23%.Left untreated, poor sleep quality during pregnancy does not only cause chronic fatigue and concentration issues in daily life; it also increases the risk of serious medical complications, such as preeclampsia, premature birth, and low birth weight (LBW). Therefore, effective non-pharmacological interventions are urgently needed to ease the physical and emotional burden on expectant mothers.

Research Methodology Summary

This study utilized a quantitative research design with a cross-sectional approach. Data collection was carried out at the Karanggeneng Community Health Center (Puskesmas), Lamongan Regency, East Java, Indonesia, involving the entire population of third-trimester pregnant women (gestational age 28–40 weeks) registered at the facility. Using a total sampling technique, all 42 eligible pregnant women participated in the study. The researchers evaluated the regularity of the participants' attendance in prenatal yoga classes and measured their overall sleep quality. The collected data was then analyzed using bivariate Chi-Square statistical testing at a significance level of 0.05.

Key Research Findings

The statistical analysis revealed a clear and significant relationship between regular prenatal yoga practice and better sleep quality in third-trimester pregnant women:

-Yoga Participation Rate: A total of 78.6% of respondents (33 women) regularly participated in prenatal yoga sessions, while 21.4% (9 women) participated irregularly.
-Overall Sleep Quality: In general, 61.9% of respondents (26 women) enjoyed good sleep quality, whereas 38.1% (16 women) experienced poor sleep quality.
-Link Between Consistency and Sleep Quality: Among the pregnant women who practiced yoga regularly, 23 women (69.7%) achieved good sleep quality. Conversely, among those who practiced irregularly, the majority—6 women (66.7%)—suffered from poor sleep quality.
-Statistical Significance: The Chi-Square test yielded a p-value of < 0.001 (well below the 0.05 threshold). This result rejects the null hypothesis ($H_0$) and accepts the alternative hypothesis ($H_a$), confirming that regular prenatal yoga practice is significantly correlated with improved sleep quality.

Physiologically and psychologically, the gentle movements, controlled breathing techniques, and relaxation methods in prenatal yoga help reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol while stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. As a result, muscle tension decreases, blood circulation improves, and the mind achieves a state of calm, allowing pregnant women to fall asleep more easily and sleep more deeply.

Implications and Community Impact

The findings of this study offer practical implications for maternal public health services, particularly within antenatal care:
  1. For Expectant Mothers and Families: Prenatal yoga serves as a safe, accessible, and safe self-care method to reduce anxiety and physical discomfort during pregnancy without drug dependency.
  2. For Healthcare Professionals and Clinics: Midwives and medical staff at community health centers can integrate prenatal yoga sessions as a standard routine service to support both the physical and mental well-being of pregnant women.
  3. For Public Health Policy: The study supports policies aimed at providing dedicated spaces and qualified instructors for prenatal exercise at primary healthcare facilities to reduce childbirth risk factors.
The researchers emphasized that prenatal yoga provides not only physical benefits but also a valuable social support network where expectant mothers can share experiences, ultimately boosting their confidence and psychological readiness for delivery.

Author Profiles

  • Rosidatul Awaliyah, S.Keb. — Researcher at Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, specializing in midwifery and maternal health care.
  • Ponco Indah Arista Sari, S.S.T., M.Kes. — Lecturer and Researcher at Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, expert in midwifery and antenatal care (Corresponding Author).
  • Aulia Kurnianing Putri, S.S.T., M.Keb. — Academician and Researcher at Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, focusing on reproductive health and maternal care.

  • Ratih Indah Kartikasari, S.S.T., M.Kes. — Researcher and Faculty Member at Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, specializing in maternal and child health.

Research Source

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